A Diploma, A Dream, and a Town Called Wyomissing: Reuniting Helen Dries' 1924 Graduation Keepsake
- Amy Atkin
- Jul 12
- 3 min read
Tucked into the folds of a century of history, a 1924 high school diploma from Wyomissing High School has emerged—weathered by time, yet rich with personal and local significance. This diploma was awarded to Helen Dries on June 19, 1924, marking her a proud graduation from a Pennsylvania school rooted in a growing and optimistic community.
Though the document bears water damage on one side and some fragility from having been mounted to a backing board, it remains entirely legible. The original 1924 class ribbon and embossed foil seal are still intact, offering a powerful glimpse into the care and ceremony of that milestone moment. Despite the damage, Helen's achievement shines through—both literally and symbolically.
Who Was Helen Dries?
That’s the question I’m working hard to answer.
What I do know so far is that Helen Dries graduated in 1924 from Wyomissing High School. Thanks to a bit of digging through Ancestry.com, I found her senior photo, which shows a young woman with a determined gaze and a sense of purpose. But beyond that, her trail grows faint—for now.
As I continue to trace Helen’s life story, my goal is simple: to return this diploma to a direct descendant or relative who can once again appreciate this family heirloom.
Wyomissing in 1924: A Town on the Rise
To understand Helen’s world, we have to look at Wyomissing, Pennsylvania as it was in the 1920s.
Located just outside of Reading, Wyomissing was originally established in the early 20th century and began to grow rapidly thanks to the success of local industries like the Textile Machine Works and Carpenter Steel. By 1924, Wyomissing was emerging as a model suburban community—a place where modern infrastructure met green spaces, and where families believed in education, industry, and a better future.
Wyomissing High School, still relatively young at the time, reflected that vision. Though information from that era is sparse, schools in communities like Wyomissing often emphasized practical education, civic pride, and opportunity, especially for young women like Helen who were stepping into new roles in post-WWI America.
Why This Diploma Matters
A diploma is more than just paper—especially one that has survived a century.
It represents a moment of pride, perseverance, and possibility. It was the result of Helen’s hard work and a ticket to whatever came next. That someone once held onto it for so long tells us it mattered deeply to someone—perhaps Helen herself, or a family member who kept it safe for years.
Now, it’s my turn to keep it safe—and to find the next rightful steward of this piece of history.
Help Me Reunite This Piece of the Past
Are you a relative of Helen Dries? Do you have ties to the Wyomissing Class of 1924 or know someone who does? I would love to hear from you. This diploma belongs with family, and I’m committed to getting it home.
How You Can Help:
Share this post with history lovers, genealogy forums, or Wyomissing-area groups.
Reach out if you have any family trees, photos, or documents that mention Helen Dries or if you recognize her name.
This isn’t just a piece of paper—it’s a piece of a young woman’s dream, a town’s history, and possibly, your family's legacy.
Let’s bring it home. 🎓📜
Stay tuned for updates as I uncover more about Helen’s life—and if you’re a Dries descendant, this might just be a call from the past, waiting to be answered.
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